Blue Monday and the emotional effects of brain injury

Today (16 January) is known as ‘Blue Monday.’ It’s considered by some to be the most depressing day of the year. A mix of post-festive comedown, financial worries, and the cold, dark weather can make people feel gloomier than usual.

The term Blue Monday has no scientific basis – a travel company coined it in 2005 to sell more holidays.

However, January is still a difficult month for many, and Blue Monday is important because it recognises that many people struggle with their mental health and moods.

Mental health charity Samaritans even runs a ‘Brew Monday’ event, encouraging people to come together for a cup of tea and a chat as a reminder that others care and you are not alone.

Struggling with mental health after brain injury

Brain injury survivors often struggle with their emotions and mental health.

According to the brain injury charity Headway UK, 50% of all survivors experience depression in the first year after their injury.

Blue Monday or even a blue January is not a one-off event for people with head and brain injuries but can be an ongoing issue.

It is not easy coping with mental trauma after a severe injury, and any damage to the brain can lead to emotional extremes, including depression, anxiety, fatigue, low self-esteem, feelings of hopelessness and anger.

At Novum Law, we support many people who have suffered a brain injury and have struggled with changes in their moods and behaviour.

How to cope after a brain injury

Headway UK provides invaluable support to people dealing with emotional issues, including personality changes after a traumatic brain injury.

It has the following top tips for coping with depression after brain injury:

• Talk – Try talking to your friends and family about how you feel. If you cannot do this, writing your thoughts in a letter can be helpful.
• Avoid isolation – Socialising face-to-face with people can help you to feel less isolated.
• Engage – Doing new activities or gentle exercise can be good for brain health and is clinically proven to improve low mood.
• Seek support – getting help from support groups or using services such as the Headway helpline can give you a huge boost

Supporting people with depression after a brain injury

Tom Hartigan is an expert personal injury solicitor from our Salisbury office. He is Chairman and Trustee of Headway Salisbury and South Wiltshire and is passionate about supporting people with brain injuries. He says:

“Coming to terms with a brain injury can be a complicated and challenging process for everyone involved, particularly if they have suffered an injury or accident that wasn’t their fault. It is not just the injured person who might find it hard to cope with their emotions, but their family and loved ones too.

“Depression can often result from physical damage to the brain or the challenge of learning to live with brain injury.

“But the key message is you are not alone, and specialist help is available. Dedicated charities, like Headway UK, provide sensitive and considerate support, and I have seen first-hand what a big difference this can make. If you are struggling with depression or mental health difficulties after brain injury, I would urge you to get in touch.”

Brain injury compensation claims

If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury in an accident or incident that wasn’t your fault, you may be eligible for brain injury compensation.

Novum Law’s specialist brain injury solicitors offer specialist, compassionate support on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

We have an excellent reputation for securing maximum compensation. Our legal experts will work hard on your behalf to ensure money is available to fund your rehabilitation and care as soon as possible.

To find out more about making a brain injury claim and for a no-obligation chat, call us for FREE on 0800 884 0777, email: info@novumlaw.com , or complete our short enquiry form.